Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, Tanzania
Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)

Outty Ranking 72 4.8 · 18 traveler reviews6 hoursFrom $36
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Outty Ranking

72/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) worth booking?

Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) is a 6-hour experience in Zanzibar City, Tanzania, from $36 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
72 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (18)
Duration
6 hours
From
$36 per person

Discover the best of Zanzibar with a unique combination of Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank in one seamless experience, departing from Stone Town. Enjoy a professional local guide who shares authentic stories and insights. Relax with comfortable boat transfers, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. Perfect for couples, families, and adventure seekers, this tour blends relaxation, nature, and unforgettable island moments.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the best of Zanzibar with a unique combination of Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank in one seamless experience, departing from Stone Town. Enjoy a professional local guide who shares authentic stories and insights. Relax with comfortable boat transfers, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. Perfect for couples, families, and adventure seekers, this tour blends relaxation, nature, and unforgettable island moments.

    What's included

    Included

    • Carbonated beverages
    • Bottled water
    • Admission fees
    • Lunch
    • Use of snorkeling equipment
    • In-vehicle air conditioning

    Not included

    • Personal Expenses

    What you'll see and do

    1. Prison Island - Changuu Private Island

      Experience a memorable visit to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, located just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Travelers will enjoy crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and a peaceful island atmosphere. During the visit, guests will meet and interact with the famous giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. You’ll have the opportunity to feed them, take photos, and learn about their history and conservation. The tour also includes time to explore the historic prison ruins, relax on the beach, or go swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters. Your guide will share interesting stories about the island’s past and ensure you have an enjoyable and informative experience. This is a perfect escape for nature lovers and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar.

      120 minutes here

    2. Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve

      Enjoy a relaxing escape to Nakupenda Beach, a stunning sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters just off the coast of Stone Town. This unique spot appears during low tide, offering soft white sand and breathtaking ocean views. Travelers can swim in the warm, shallow waters, sunbathe on the pristine sandbank, and take unforgettable photos in one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful natural locations. The calm and peaceful environment makes it perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature. Guests will also have the chance to snorkel and discover colorful marine life around the sandbank. Fresh tropical fruits and refreshments are often served, adding to the overall island experience. This experience is perfect for couples, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful and scenic beach getaway.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Pickup anywhere (no tickets)

      No entrance : With this option travelers will have to bring 22$pp for entrance fees(prison island+marine conservation fee) in a day of tour Shared Duration: 7 hours Seafood BBQ : For those prefering vegetarians and chicken will have to notify us through WhatsApp Air conditioned car and boat: We will do the pickup from any hotel with an air conditioned vehicle, also the boat to cruise will be comfortable Pickup included

    • Pickup anywhere(with tickets)

      Entrance fees : This option includes the mandatory entrance fees of prison island and marine conservation fees of total 22$ Shared trip Duration: 7 hours Seafood BBQ/whatever ordered : For vegetarians and those prefer chicken should notify us Cruise with wooden boat Air conditioned vehicle : Hotel pickups to the meeting point will be held by air conditioned vehicle Pickup included

    • Pickup stontown(no tickets)

      Entrance fees: This option does not includes mandatory fees of 22$pp, no need to bring cash Shared tour Duration: 6 hours Seafood BBQ/whatever ordered: For vegetarians and those prefer chicken instead of seafood should notify on WhatsApp after the booking Round boat and walking tour Cruise by wooden boat Pickup included

    • Pickup stontown(with tickets)

      Entrance fees included : This option does include the mandatory 22$ for prison island and marine conservation fees Shared tour Duration: 6 hours Seafood BBQ : Normally we offer seafood, but if prefer chicken or vegetarian please notify on WhatsApp Wooden boat to cruise: We offer a comfortable wooden boat for cruising between islands with walking tour in stonetown Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, en, it, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Zan Excursions

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 2Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 3Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 4Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 5Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 6Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) in Zanzibar City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    18 verified traveler reviews for Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    17
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    deleo506 · October 2026

    Tour experience

    Fantanstic experience. Well informed guide.

    via Tripadvisor

    287d_vidm · October 2026

    Nice program with excellent meal on Nakupenda

    It was a very good trip, the meal on Nakupenda was excellent. Although the ocean was really wavy, our captain made funny to ride between the islands!

    via Tripadvisor

    Stefano_C · October 2026

    Day trip to Prison Island and Nakupenda

    Beautiful trip. Nakupenda was its highlight. Nice seafood lunch on the beach. There is plenty of time after lunch to enjoy the beauty of this place

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review We’re delighted that you enjoyed Prison Island and especially Nakupenda Sandbank, the fresh seafood BBQ lunch, and the relaxing time on the beach. We hope to welcome you again on another Zanzibar adventure

    via Viator

    Georgios_A · September 2026

    We had a really nice...

    We had a really nice time. The Prison Island was the highlight of the trip . We got to see the big tortoises!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much, Georgios, for your wonderful review, We’re very happy to hear that you had a great time and especially enjoyed Prison Island and seeing the giant tortoises. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we hope to welcome you back to Zanzibar again in the future

    via Viator

    iwuchukwue2026 · September 2026

    Best trip ever

    Very fantastic and amazing 🤩

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for this wonderful review, We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the trip and everything going well Welcome again zanzibar hakuna matata

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    6 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $36 to $147
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    6
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 72

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)83
    Review evidence (18% weight)56
    Booking momentum (14% weight)46
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ): questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Zanzibar City.

    How much does Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) cost?

    +

    Prices start at $36 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Zanzibar City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) take?

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    Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Zanzibar City is not rushed.

    Is Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Zanzibar City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

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    Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Zanzibar City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Zanzibar City and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Zanzibar City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Zanzibar City?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Zanzibar City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 3 Hours Private Stone Town Walking Tour, Stone Town Heritage Walk with local Guide, Zanzibar Adventure Quad with Sunset and Transfer Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Zanzibar City?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Zanzibar City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

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    Included: Carbonated beverages; Bottled water; Admission fees; Lunch; and Use of snorkeling equipment. Not included: Personal Expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 794 listed pickup locations in and around Zanzibar City. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) offered in?

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    It is offered in German, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ) if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

    +

    Across 18 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ)?

    +

    There are 4 options to choose from, including Pickup anywhere (no tickets), Pickup anywhere(with tickets), Pickup stontown(no tickets), Pickup stontown(with tickets). Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Zanzibar - Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank with Lunch (BBQ).

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